Cycling in Norfolk

Pedalling through narrow country lanes and woodland cycle routes with the breeze in your hair and sun on your face, or cycling along pretty coastal paths past fields of poppies and golden barley and with the distant sea sparkling on the horizon, cycling in Norfolk gives you the freedom to explore. And, of course, you don't have to be the Tour de France's King of the Mountains to enjoy it – the county's undulations are extremely benign.

The Sustrans National Cycle Network,using old railway paths, forest tracks, country parks, bridleways, quiet minor roads and traffic-calmed streets in urban areas, passes through Norfolk and is designed to make cycling fun, safe and simple. The quieter paths, including the Marriott's Way, are a great place for children and new cyclists to practice their cycling skills and many are just the right length for a day ride.

If you'd like to experience some pure cycling, follow the ancient Peddars Way from the heather-carpeted heaths of the Brecks to the wild north Norfolk coast.

Cyclists take a well-earned rest at Bircham windmill.

Norfolk Cycle Routes

If you're feeling energetic you can try the Norfolk Coastal Cycleway which covers 59 miles from King’s Lynn to Great Yarmouth via Cromer. With much of the route passing through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty it has dramatic views, beautiful countryside and outstanding wildlife. Thanks to the gentle gradients of the area the cycleway is perfect for cyclists of all ages and abilities. It follows quiet lanes just inland from the coast and around every corner you will see yet more breathtaking scenery.

If you fancy a shorter route, try the Broads by Bike Trails that take you through picturesque countryside in the Broads National Park.

If you're in the South Norfolk area, then why not download maps of the Bike It cycle routes in the district, plus a South Norfolk tour map? Pubs, shops, cycle-friendly B&Bs and interesting features are all marked on the maps.

Or how about some off-road cycling Thetford Forest in the Brecks? In the heart of the largest lowland pine forest in the UK, you will find miles of trails especially for cyclists. You can hire a mountain bike at the High Lodge Forest Centre and join one of the organised rides, or take your own bike and explore the forest at your leisure. There is a variety of routes to choose from with something for all abilities. Graded by colour, the Green Trail is a gentle route and great for all the family with wide tracks and fairly level ground while the Black Trail is for the experienced rider covering around 11 miles across various terrains. There are many great trails to choose from across the Brecks, including the Round Brecks Explorer Route. Some attractions offer discounted entry to those arriving by bicycle and entrance to High Lodge Forest centre is free.